Studies across the globe have suggested Rhodamine B, used to make pink cotton candy, if consumed in high doses can be carcinogenic.
Bengaluru: Earlier this month, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry banned the sale of the ubiquitous pink cotton candy, citing the presence of a carcinogen.
The chemical in question is Rhodamine B. An analysis of samples in Chennai found the presence of the cancer-causing chemical, the health minister of Tamil Nadu confirmed.
“Rhodamine B is actually a dye used in fabric, plastic and carpet industries. It is a synthetic, water-soluble chemical dye. It appears green in powder form but turns bright pink when dissolved in water,” explains Deepika Vasudevan, dietician and Olympic sport nutritionist.
Studies across the globe have suggested Rhodamine B consumed in high doses can be carcinogenic. Even occasional consumption of cotton candy containing Rhodamine B could have negative health effects on children as they are more vulnerable and their immune systems are still developing, experts told Metrolife.
Dr Vinayak S, internal medicine specialist, says, “Apart from being carcinogenic, the dye has various harms. Long-term consumption can cause damage to the liver, eyes, and even the nervous system. Animal experiments have shown that the chemical is harmful to the cerebellum.”
Common adulterant
According to the Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI), a list of synthetic colours are marked as safe for consumption.
“The additives regulation list puts down what colours are allowed and what aren’t. Also there are limits prescribed for each colour. If the colours are used within the limit, they shouldn’t be harmful. This is in accordance with the latest research across the world,” says Ramesh Agarwal, CEO, Food Safety Works, a Bengaluru-based food safety consultancy.
He labels Rhodamine B as a common adulterant, classified as a carcinogen and shunned by the European Union. “In India, the dye is also commonly used to enhance the colour of ragi and sweet potatoes,” he says.